Wireless audio finally landed on the Nintendo Switch in 2021, and while it's nice to have options beyond the built-in headphone jack, Bluetooth on the Switch has some limitations because of the way the feature was implemented,
Since Nintendo has a mobile app that handles all chat capabilities, Bluetooth audio will not work with local wireless multiplayer, and Bluetooth microphones are not supported. You can also only use one audio device and two wireless controllers at a time. Nintendo even warns players that they may encounter audio latency issues in certain situations.
For a better Bluetooth experience, you'll likely have to wait for the long-rumored Switch Pro. In the meantime, if you want to use the feature, here's how to connect your Bluetooth headphones to the Nintendo Switch.
Pair Bluetooth Headphones
As long as you're running version 13.0.0 or higher on your Switch, Bluetooth Audio will be available on the Switch, Switch (OLED), or Switch Lite, and can be used while docked or in handheld mode. Your first order of business should be to select the System Settings gear icon on the home screen and select Bluetooth Audio.
At this point, you can put your Bluetooth device in pairing mode. This will vary based on your particular device, but many true wireless earbuds simply require you to remove them from the case. Other headsets may have a pairing button you need to hold down.
With the headphones in pairing mode, tap Pair Device on the Switch screen. The console will search for nearby devices, then display any audio devices it finds. If your headphones are listed, tap the entry and then OK to initiate the connection.
If your Switch cannot find your headphones or earbuds, try pressing the Y button on the controller. You may also need to put the headset in pairing mode again. Keep it mind that if you wish to add additional headsets, you must first disconnect from the current device.
Turn Off Bluetooth Audio
From this point on, Bluetooth Audio should automatically connect whenever you try to use your Bluetooth audio device near the Switch. However, once the feature is in use, you can only connect two wireless controllers to the console, won't have the ability to locate lost controllers, and can't change grip/order in the Controllers menu.
Turn off the feature and manage connected devices under System Settings > Bluetooth Audio. Select the connected device and click Disconnect Device to unpair the headset. This will officially turn off Bluetooth Audio and allow you to use any disabled features, like controller pairing. Choose Remove Device to delete the entry from the console.
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